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Guidelines for Finding a Contractor

Never hire a contractor without first taking the following steps, according to the League of homeowners:

If your state has a licensing board for contractors, call them. And ask the board if there are any outstanding complaints against that license holder.

Contact your local Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints on file.

When interviewing, ask prospects about their worker's compensation insurance.

Get the policy number and phone number of the insurance carrier. Call to be sure the contractor is covered. if he or she is not, any work-related injury on your property could become a liability to you.

Check to see that the contractor has an umbrella general liability policy.

Always ask for references.

Always take the time to call and verify them.

Do not give in to pressure to make a decision. Believe it or not, there are more contractors than there is work to be done. If a contractor insists that you make a quick decision, move on to someone else.

Never pay a deposit to a contractor. If you are asked to pay a deposit fee at the first meeting, simply end the meeting.